Agency export,What are the common charging models for service fees?

According to the latest industry research data for 2025, formal export agency companies mainly adopt the following 4 billing methods:

• Percentage-based fee on trade amount: Generally charging a service fee of 0.8%-3%, with high-value-added products like medical equipment reaching up to 5%
• Fixed service package fee: Under EXW delivery terms, the basic service fee is approximately 8000-20000 yuan per order
• The mixed billing model: 1% of trade amount + document processing fee (200-500 yuan/document) + special document expedited fee
• Hidden cost additions: Some agents may charge bank fees (0.1%-0.3%), foreign exchange verification fees (300-800 yuan), etc.

What factors affect the charging standards for export agency services?

According to the WTOs 2024 Global Trade Service Cost Report, the following 6 factors directly affect service rates:

• Product attribute differences:
  • Dangerous goods transportation requires an additional 15%-30% risk surcharge
  • Mandatory inspection fees for food categories (500-2000 yuan)
• Trade volume differences: Million-level orders can be negotiated down to 0.5%, while small orders are generally no less than 1.5%
• Difference in Service Scope: Full services including AEO certification guidance are 40%-60% more expensive than basic customs clearance services
• Settlement currency types: Emerging market currency settlements require an additional 0.2%-0.5% exchange risk fee

How to determine if agency fees are reasonable?

It is recommended to conduct professional evaluations through the following 5 dimensions:

• Compare quotation details from at least 3 agencies
• Verify whether fees include new document types like RCEP certificates of origin
• Confirm the allocation method of bank fees in cross-border payment processes
• Request proof of customs clearance times for similar products in the past 3 months
• Check the agencys AEO certification level with China Customs

What fee clauses should be noted in agency contracts?

Be sure to clarify the following 4 key clauses in the agreement:

• Fee adjustment mechanismAgreed compensation plan for exchange rate fluctuations exceeding 5%
• Force Majeure ClauseCost-sharing ratio for additional expenses caused by customs policy changes
• Service suspension clauseClear calculation standards for storage fees during cargo inspection detention
• Breach of contract compensation clauseCompensation plan for losses caused by return shipments due to documentation errors

Common Questions Authority Answers

Q: Is there an annual fee payment method available?
A: Starting from 2025, leading service providers will introduce tiered annual fee packages. A $100,000 annual fee provides unlimited basic customs declaration services throughout the year.

Q: Does the agency service fee include VAT?
A: Special attention should be paid to whether the quotation includes 6% VAT. Some companies will separately list tax-exclusive prices.

Q: Are there additional charges for customs inspections?
A: Formal agencies should clearly state inspection service fee standards in contracts, typically charging 500-2000 RMB per on-site coordination service.